An empirical investigation of the detrimental effects of the intensive use of computers in the business world

Abstract

Occupational injuries pose a major problem in workplaces where computers are widely used. Intensive, repetitive and long period computer use results in costly health problems (direct cost), and lost productivity (indirect cost). This paper presents the findings from a scientific research to determine the effect of musculoskeletal discomfort factors that contribute to musculoskeletal disorders resulting from intensive use of computers in the workplaces. In this context, a questionnaire was given to 84 intensive computer users working for the university sector in North Cyprus. The present article aims at investigating the factors that contribute to such disorders using a questionnaire and a mathematical model, which is developed by assessing and analyzing workplace ergonomics, worker attitudes and experiences on computer use. The findings from this study shows that the gender (OR=3.37, CI: 2.38-4.77), psychosocial factors (like working with computers, OR=0.050, CI: 0.001-0.623), office ergonomics qualities such as availability of foot support [OR= 0.295, CI: 0.092-0.041] and availability of sufficient lightening [OR=3.477, CI:1.232-9.810] were significant factors of the formation of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs). Additionally, it was shown that physical exposures are associated with increased risk of upper extremity disorders. The current research also provides an evidence that the symptoms of musculoskeletal discomfort (such as pain), and the frequency of these symptoms were also significant in the development of WRMSDs.